Leatherback Turtle Conservation

Leatherback turtle seen in Skidegate Inlet, British Columbia.  Photo by Laurie Gordon.

Leatherback turtles are one of the most endangered animals on the planet and we are lucky enough to have them on both of Canada's coasts.  The Vancouver Aquarium, with the assistance of a federal initiative called the Habitat Stewardship Program for Species at Risk, is involved in gathering knowledge about this incredible animal.

How Can I Help?

The Aquarium wants you to participate in Canada's conservation efforts by reporting sightings of sea turtles in and around coastal BC waters.   Sightings information helps us to learn more about when the turtles are in our waters, how many are here and what they are doing.  The Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup is another great way to get involved. Teams of people from all over Canada reduce the amount of plastic and garbage in and around our waterways. This garbage, if left alone, can wash into the ocean and severely injure turtles and other marine life.

The Leatherback Turtle Awareness Program, for teachers and students, features conservation as a subject that can be integrated into many parts of daily life. This program provides educational resources and promotes actions that contribute to leatherback conservation. Click here to learn more about this program.